Zaaki Returns in All Aged Stakes

Zaaki , one of Australia's best older horses in the weight-for-age division, will return in the April 15 All Aged Stakes (G1), run over 1,400 meters, at Randwick Racecourse on the back of a delay to the beginning of his preparation.

Rider James McDonald described Zaaki's lead-up to the autumn as 'flat', but said that he is back to his usual self.

"He was flat as a tack and that just wasn't him, but in his last trial he was back to his brilliant, quirky, self,'' McDonald told Racing NSW. "I've had a bit to do with him now so I know whether he's on or off and he's definitely back on song and back to his usual self."

Zaaki's last run was a strong win in the Champions Stakes (G1) last November, where he left top runners Mo'unga and Anamoe in his wake. The 8-year-old is a four-time winner first-up and two-time winner over 1,400 meters, but both conditions at group 1 level will be one of his toughest tests to date.

"He runs terrific fresh all the time. This is his toughest test over 1,400 meters, but he's going terrific,'' McDonald said. "He's a top-class horse, there's no question about that, and when he has won over the seven furlongs at Randwick, he's absolutely donkey-licked his rivals. He's a very adaptable horse and any rain just enhances his chances because he gets through the conditions well and it makes it more of a test."